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Hi all. In today’s article I would like to talk about a play that is being put on this week as a part of the library’s Summer Reading Program.

The play is called “Ever After” and is a true collaborative piece in every meaning of the word. The kids involved started off with another play, director and direction. As is want to happen in life, stuff happens and the original play had to be canceled. That could have been the end of it, but it was not.

I would love to say that I rode in with my white hat to save the day but that would be a piece of fiction on my part. It was the kids involved with the original play who decided they still wanted to do a play, so they sought out a director and found one in Jennifer Lowry. Now they needed a play to be directed. With the help of Jenn, the kids came up with and wrote their very own play — and not only a regular play, but a musical fairytale comedy. The amazing part to me was not only did they write and come up with a brilliantly funny play, they did so over the period of literally a couple of days with everyone in the entire cast and crew contributing. Why did they do this? They had no choice. It was the middle of May with a play scheduled to be put on in early July. These are kids with ambition, drive and a love of theater.

Next came an aggressive rehearsal schedule that not only involved learning lines, blocking, choreographing, learning songs, etc., but also constant editing and rewriting of the play as they went along (even during the last week of rehearsal). Did I mention that props, clothing scenery, etc. also had to be made or purchased?

Along the journey to the play “Ever After,” I think every emotion that could be felt did at one time reared its head: frustration, joy, anger, hope, despair, glee, panic, pride and caring. You name it, these kids went through it and came through with flying colors.

Before I say another word about the play or anyone else, I must tell you a little about Jennifer Lowry. She stepped into a situation that many would have run away from screaming in fear. She took over the play with such enthusiasm and dogged determination and never once was deterred by anything that threatened to derail this wonderful play. Without her, this play would not be happening. She is truly an inspiring and caring individual. I saw her work day in and out, never doubting the kids’ ability no matter their lack of experience or obstacles that had to be overcome. I did not know Jenn before this play but am now proud to call her my friend. If she ever wants to direct another library play, I would be honored and pleased.

Finally a word of thanks to the many, many people who helped in so many ways with making this play work.

I hope to see all who happen to read this article at the play this week. To find out where and when it is showing, just call me at(910)738-4859 or go by your local library.

— Bill Corder is the Youth Services Librarian at the Robeson County Public Library.